Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A system for managing medical equipment, the system comprising: one or more web servers; an equipment tracking module, implemented on the one or more web servers, to maintain equipment records including a plurality of fields corresponding to medical equipment that are shipped from a medical equipment manufacturer to a medical center, wherein the equipment tracking module is configured to allow only the medical equipment manufacturer to create each equipment record about the medical equipment in the equipment tracking module; an authentication system, implemented on the one or more web servers, to authenticate a user at the medical center; a patient information tracking module, implemented on the one or more web servers, to maintain patient records including a plurality of fields corresponding to patients of the medical center and to associate the patient records with the equipment records when the patients are equipped with the medical equipment, wherein each equipment record is associated with a patient record for a particular patient by way of at least one field and at least one field in the patient record is associated with at least one equipment record; and a mapping module, provided through the one or more web servers, to provide locations of medical facilities capable of providing support for the medical equipment for those of the patients that have been discharged from the medical center.
This system manages medical equipment and patient data across a healthcare network. The system addresses challenges in tracking medical devices from manufacturers to medical centers and linking them to patient records, while also providing support location information for discharged patients. The system includes web servers hosting several modules. An equipment tracking module maintains detailed records of medical equipment shipped from manufacturers to medical centers, with access restricted to manufacturers for record creation. An authentication system verifies user credentials at the medical center. A patient information tracking module stores patient records and links them to equipment records when patients use specific devices, ensuring bidirectional associations between patients and equipment. A mapping module identifies nearby medical facilities capable of supporting the equipment for discharged patients. The system ensures secure, manufacturer-controlled equipment data entry, accurate patient-equipment associations, and post-discharge support location tracking.
2. The system of claim 1 , further comprising: a learning management module to present medical equipment training information for the medical center; and a product incident module to maintain product incident records to track medical equipment failures.
This invention relates to a system for managing medical equipment in a healthcare setting, addressing challenges in training staff and tracking equipment failures. The system includes a learning management module that provides training information for medical equipment, ensuring healthcare professionals are properly educated on device operation and safety. Additionally, a product incident module records and tracks incidents related to medical equipment failures, enabling analysis of recurring issues and improving maintenance protocols. The system integrates these modules to enhance operational efficiency, reduce errors, and ensure compliance with regulatory standards. By centralizing training and incident data, the system helps medical centers maintain high-quality care while minimizing equipment downtime and associated risks. The solution is particularly valuable in environments where rapid access to accurate training materials and incident history is critical for patient safety and operational continuity.
3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the equipment tracking module is to create an equipment record for each medical equipment being shipped when the medical equipment manufacturer initiates a shipment of the medical equipment to the medical center and wherein an initial location of the medical equipment is stored as in transit in the equipment record.
This invention relates to a system for tracking medical equipment during shipment from manufacturers to medical centers. The system addresses the challenge of maintaining visibility and accountability of high-value medical devices throughout the supply chain, ensuring timely delivery and reducing losses or delays. The system includes an equipment tracking module that automatically generates a unique equipment record for each medical device when a shipment is initiated by the manufacturer. This record captures the initial location of the device as "in transit," providing a clear starting point for monitoring its journey. The tracking module continuously updates the equipment record with location data as the shipment progresses, allowing stakeholders to verify the device's status and estimated arrival time. Additional features may include integration with logistics providers to receive real-time tracking updates, alerts for deviations from expected routes, and automated notifications to the receiving medical center upon delivery. The system may also support documentation management, storing shipping manifests, certificates of compliance, and other relevant records linked to each equipment record. By centralizing tracking and documentation, the system improves supply chain transparency, reduces administrative overhead, and ensures compliance with regulatory requirements for medical device distribution. The automated record creation and location tracking streamline operations for both manufacturers and healthcare providers.
4. The system of claim 3 , wherein the equipment tracking module is to add the medical equipment being shipped to an inventory list of the medical center when the medical equipment manufacturer initiates the shipment of the medical equipment to the medical center.
This invention relates to a system for tracking medical equipment shipments between manufacturers and medical centers. The system addresses the challenge of ensuring accurate inventory management by automating the process of updating medical center inventories when equipment is shipped. The system includes an equipment tracking module that monitors shipment initiation by the manufacturer. When a shipment is initiated, the module automatically adds the medical equipment to the inventory list of the designated medical center. This eliminates manual data entry errors and ensures real-time inventory updates. The system also includes a communication interface for exchanging shipment data between the manufacturer and the medical center, and a data processing module to validate and process the shipment information. The equipment tracking module may further verify shipment details such as equipment type, quantity, and destination before updating the inventory. The system ensures seamless integration with existing inventory management systems, reducing administrative overhead and improving supply chain efficiency.
5. The system of claim 1 , wherein the medical equipment corresponding to the equipment record that is being associated with the patient record is removed from an inventory list when the equipment record is associated with the patient.
This invention relates to a system for managing medical equipment and patient records, addressing the challenge of tracking equipment usage and availability in healthcare settings. The system associates medical equipment records with patient records to document which equipment is used for which patient, ensuring accurate tracking and reducing administrative errors. When an equipment record is linked to a patient record, the corresponding medical equipment is automatically removed from an inventory list, preventing double-booking or misplacement. This ensures that equipment is properly accounted for and available for future use. The system may also include features for generating alerts if equipment is not returned or if inventory levels fall below a threshold, improving operational efficiency. The equipment records may contain details such as equipment type, serial number, and maintenance history, while patient records include relevant medical information. The system may be integrated with hospital information systems to streamline workflows and enhance data accuracy. By automating the removal of equipment from inventory when assigned to a patient, the system minimizes manual tracking errors and ensures real-time visibility of available resources. This improves patient care by ensuring the right equipment is available when needed while maintaining accurate inventory records.
6. The system of claim 2 , wherein the mapping module obtains the locations of the medical facilities by using a map database.
This invention relates to a system for managing medical facility locations using a map database. The system includes a mapping module that retrieves and stores the geographic coordinates of medical facilities from a map database. These locations are then used to provide accurate and up-to-date information about healthcare providers, enabling efficient navigation, resource allocation, or emergency response planning. The system may also include a user interface for displaying the mapped facilities, allowing users to search, filter, or visualize the data based on specific criteria such as facility type, availability, or distance. The integration with a map database ensures that the system can dynamically update facility locations as new data becomes available, improving reliability and usability. This solution addresses the challenge of maintaining accurate and accessible medical facility information, which is critical for healthcare logistics, patient care coordination, and public health initiatives. The system may be deployed in various applications, including mobile apps, web platforms, or emergency response systems, to enhance decision-making and operational efficiency in healthcare delivery.
7. The system of claim 1 , wherein the equipment tracking module is configured to automatically add equipment maintenance reminders to an equipment-to-do list.
This invention relates to equipment tracking and maintenance management systems. The system monitors and manages equipment, particularly in industrial or operational environments where tracking maintenance schedules is critical. The problem addressed is the need for automated reminders to ensure timely maintenance, reducing downtime and extending equipment lifespan. The system includes an equipment tracking module that automatically generates and adds maintenance reminders to an equipment-to-do list. This module monitors equipment usage, performance, or time-based triggers to determine when maintenance is due. Once a maintenance requirement is identified, the system creates a reminder and integrates it into a centralized to-do list, ensuring that maintenance tasks are not overlooked. The system may also prioritize tasks based on urgency or criticality, helping operators focus on the most important maintenance activities first. Additionally, the system may track completion status, send notifications, and log maintenance history for future reference. This automation reduces manual tracking errors and improves overall equipment reliability.
8. The system of claim 1 , wherein the patient information tracking module is to automatically add patient care reminders and regulatory compliance reminders to a patient-care-to-do list.
This invention relates to a healthcare information system designed to improve patient care management and regulatory compliance. The system includes a patient information tracking module that automatically generates and adds patient care reminders and regulatory compliance reminders to a patient-care-to-do list. The patient information tracking module monitors patient data, treatment schedules, and regulatory requirements to identify necessary actions. When a care task or compliance requirement is due, the system creates a reminder and adds it to a centralized to-do list accessible by healthcare providers. This ensures timely patient care and adherence to regulatory standards. The system may also integrate with electronic health records (EHRs) to pull relevant patient data and compliance guidelines, reducing manual tracking and minimizing errors. By automating reminder generation, the system helps healthcare providers prioritize tasks, improve workflow efficiency, and maintain compliance with healthcare regulations. The invention is particularly useful in clinical settings where timely interventions and regulatory adherence are critical.
9. The system of claim 1 , wherein the medical equipment is at least one of an implantable device, an implantable-device-related accessory, a non-implantable device, or a non-implantable-device-related accessory.
This invention relates to a system for managing medical equipment, addressing challenges in tracking, monitoring, and maintaining various types of medical devices and accessories. The system is designed to handle a broad range of medical equipment, including implantable devices (such as pacemakers or defibrillators), their related accessories (e.g., leads or programmers), non-implantable devices (like external monitors or infusion pumps), and their associated accessories (such as catheters or power supplies). The system likely includes components for data collection, processing, and analysis to ensure proper functioning, compliance, and safety of the equipment. It may also facilitate inventory management, usage tracking, and maintenance scheduling to optimize performance and reduce risks. The invention aims to improve efficiency in healthcare settings by providing a unified approach to managing diverse medical equipment types, ensuring they meet regulatory and operational standards. The system may integrate with existing hospital or clinic infrastructure to streamline workflows and enhance patient care.
10. A computer-implemented method for tracking medical equipment sold by a medical equipment manufacturer, the method comprising: generating, by a computer that includes an equipment tracking module, an equipment record including a plurality of fields corresponding to the medical equipment, wherein the equipment tracking module is configured so that the generating of the equipment record is initiated only by the medical equipment manufacturer when the medical equipment manufacturer ships the medical equipment to a medical center, and wherein an initial location of the medical equipment is stored as in transit in the equipment record; updating an inventory list of the medical center to include the medical equipment when the equipment record is generated; authenticating a user of the medical center based on data received from the user; receiving data from the user indicating an association of the equipment record with a patient record including a plurality of fields of a patient when the patient is equipped with the medical equipment, the equipment record associates with a patient record for a particular patient by way of at least one field associated with the patient record and at least one field in the patient record associated with at least one equipment record; providing a map which shows locations of medical facilities capable of providing support for the medical equipment for those patients that have been discharged from the medical center; and receiving data indicating a disassociation of the equipment record from the patient record when the patient is no longer using the medical equipment.
This invention relates to a computer-implemented system for tracking medical equipment sold by manufacturers to medical centers. The system addresses the challenge of managing medical equipment throughout its lifecycle, from shipment to patient use and beyond, ensuring accurate inventory tracking and support for patients using the equipment. The system generates an equipment record when the manufacturer ships medical equipment to a medical center. The record includes fields detailing the equipment and initially marks its location as "in transit." Upon record creation, the medical center's inventory list is updated to reflect the new equipment. Users at the medical center, after authentication, can link the equipment record to a patient record when the equipment is assigned to a patient. This association is made through matching fields between the equipment and patient records. The system also provides a map displaying nearby medical facilities capable of supporting the equipment for patients discharged from the medical center. When the equipment is no longer in use by the patient, the system receives data to disassociate the equipment record from the patient record, updating the system accordingly. This ensures real-time tracking of equipment status and location, improving inventory management and patient care coordination.
11. The computer-implemented method of claim 10 , further comprising: automatically adding equipment maintenance reminders to an equipment-to-do list.
This invention relates to automated equipment maintenance management systems. The problem addressed is the need for proactive and efficient tracking of maintenance tasks to prevent equipment failures and downtime. The system automatically generates and schedules maintenance reminders based on predefined criteria, such as time intervals, usage metrics, or sensor data. These reminders are then integrated into an equipment-to-do list, which serves as a centralized task management interface. The system may also analyze historical maintenance data to optimize reminder timing and prioritize tasks based on criticality. Additionally, the system can send notifications to relevant personnel, ensuring timely execution of maintenance activities. The equipment-to-do list may be accessible via a user interface or integrated with existing enterprise software, allowing for seamless workflow management. The invention aims to improve maintenance efficiency, reduce unplanned downtime, and extend equipment lifespan by automating reminder generation and task tracking.
12. The computer-implemented method of claim 10 , further comprising: automatically adding patient care reminders to a patient-care-to-do list.
This invention relates to a computer-implemented system for managing patient care tasks, specifically addressing the challenge of ensuring timely and organized patient care by automating the generation and tracking of care reminders. The system monitors patient data and care protocols to identify required actions, such as medication administration, follow-up appointments, or diagnostic tests. When a care task is detected, the system automatically generates a reminder and adds it to a centralized patient-care-to-do list. The reminders are prioritized based on urgency, patient condition, or protocol requirements, ensuring that critical tasks are addressed promptly. The system may also integrate with existing healthcare databases to retrieve relevant patient information, such as medical history or treatment plans, to tailor reminders accordingly. Additionally, the system can notify healthcare providers or caregivers via alerts, ensuring that all necessary actions are completed in a timely manner. This automation reduces the risk of missed care tasks, improves workflow efficiency, and enhances patient outcomes by maintaining adherence to care protocols. The system may also allow for manual adjustments to reminders, enabling customization based on specific patient needs or provider preferences.
13. The computer-implemented method of claim 10 , further comprising: receiving a user-provided geographic location information corresponding to a target location; and providing on the map locations of medical facilities nearby the target location that are capable of providing support for the medical equipment after the patient has been discharged from the medical center.
This invention relates to a computer-implemented method for enhancing patient care by integrating medical equipment support services with geographic location data. The method addresses the challenge of ensuring continuous medical equipment support for patients after discharge by identifying nearby medical facilities capable of providing such support. The method involves receiving user-provided geographic location information corresponding to a target location, such as a patient's home or another post-discharge site. Using this data, the system generates a map displaying nearby medical facilities that can support the patient's medical equipment after discharge. The system ensures that these facilities are equipped to handle the specific medical equipment required by the patient, thereby improving post-discharge care coordination. Additionally, the method may include generating a map displaying the medical center where the patient is currently receiving treatment, along with the patient's current location within the medical center. This helps medical staff track patient movement and equipment usage in real time. The system also tracks the movement of medical equipment within the medical center, updating the map dynamically to reflect changes in equipment location. This ensures that equipment is readily available when needed, reducing delays in patient care. By integrating geographic location data with medical facility capabilities, the method streamlines post-discharge support and enhances patient safety and continuity of care.
14. The computer-implemented method of claim 10 , wherein the medical equipment is at least one of an implantable device, an implantable-device-related accessory, a non-implantable device, or a non-implantable-device-related accessory.
This invention relates to a computer-implemented method for managing medical equipment, addressing the need for efficient tracking, monitoring, and maintenance of diverse medical devices. The method involves identifying medical equipment, which may include implantable devices (e.g., pacemakers, defibrillators), implantable-device-related accessories (e.g., leads, sensors), non-implantable devices (e.g., diagnostic machines, infusion pumps), or non-implantable-device-related accessories (e.g., cables, chargers). The system collects and processes data related to the equipment, such as usage logs, performance metrics, and maintenance records, to optimize device performance and ensure compliance with regulatory standards. The method may also involve generating alerts for maintenance, recalls, or performance issues, and integrating with electronic health records (EHRs) or hospital management systems for seamless data exchange. By categorizing and tracking these devices, the system enhances patient safety, reduces downtime, and improves operational efficiency in healthcare settings. The approach is adaptable to various medical equipment types, ensuring comprehensive coverage across different healthcare environments.
15. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing instructions thereon, the instructions when executed by a processor causing the processor to perform a method comprising: generating, by a computer that includes an equipment tracking module, an equipment record including a plurality of fields corresponding to the medical equipment, wherein the equipment tracking module is configured so that the generating of the equipment record is initiated only by the medical equipment manufacturer when the medical equipment manufacturer ships the medical equipment to a medical center, and wherein an initial location of the medical equipment is stored as in transit in the equipment record; updating an inventory list of the medical center to include the medical equipment when the equipment record is generated; authenticating a user of the medical center based on data received from the user; receiving data from the user indicating an association of the equipment record with a patient record including a plurality of fields of a patient when the patient is equipped with the medical equipment, wherein the equipment record is associated with a patient record for a particular patient by way of at least one field and at least one field in the patient record is associated with at least one equipment record; providing a map which shows locations of medical facilities capable of providing support for the medical equipment for those patients that have been discharged from the medical center; and receiving data indicating a disassociation of the equipment record from the patient record when the patient is no longer using the medical equipment.
This invention relates to a system for tracking medical equipment and its association with patients, particularly for ensuring proper inventory management and support services. The system involves a computer-readable storage medium with instructions for a processor to perform equipment tracking. A medical equipment manufacturer initiates the creation of an equipment record when shipping medical equipment to a medical center. The record includes fields corresponding to the equipment and initially marks its location as "in transit." Upon record generation, the medical center's inventory list is updated to include the equipment. The system authenticates users of the medical center before allowing them to associate the equipment record with a patient record. This association links specific equipment to a patient when the equipment is used, with fields in both records cross-referencing each other. The system also provides a map showing nearby medical facilities capable of supporting the equipment for discharged patients. When the patient no longer uses the equipment, the system receives data to disassociate the equipment record from the patient record. This ensures accurate tracking of equipment usage, inventory management, and support service availability.
16. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 15 , wherein the method further comprises: automatically adding equipment maintenance reminders to an equipment-to-do list.
This invention relates to a computer-implemented system for managing equipment maintenance tasks. The system addresses the problem of missed or delayed maintenance activities, which can lead to equipment failures, downtime, and increased operational costs. The invention provides a method for automatically generating and managing equipment maintenance reminders within a digital to-do list, ensuring timely maintenance actions. The system monitors equipment usage data, such as operational hours or performance metrics, to determine when maintenance is required. When a maintenance threshold is reached, the system automatically creates a reminder and adds it to an equipment-specific to-do list. The reminder includes details such as the type of maintenance needed, the equipment involved, and the recommended timeframe for completion. The system may also prioritize reminders based on urgency, ensuring critical tasks are addressed first. Additionally, the system can integrate with existing scheduling tools, allowing users to assign maintenance tasks to specific personnel or schedule them within a broader workflow. The invention improves maintenance tracking by centralizing reminders in a single, accessible location, reducing the risk of oversight and enhancing equipment reliability. The automated generation of reminders minimizes manual tracking efforts, improving efficiency and operational consistency.
17. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 15 , wherein the method further comprises: receiving a user-provided geographic location information corresponding to a target location; and providing on the map locations of medical facilities nearby the target location that are capable of providing support for the medical equipment after the patient has been discharged from the medical center.
This invention relates to a system for managing medical equipment and patient care, particularly for locating post-discharge medical support facilities. The problem addressed is the difficulty patients face in finding nearby medical facilities that can provide ongoing support for medical equipment after leaving a hospital or medical center. The system includes a computer-readable storage medium storing instructions that, when executed, perform a method for tracking medical equipment and identifying suitable post-discharge care locations. The method involves receiving user-provided geographic location information for a target location, such as a patient's home or another care facility. Based on this input, the system provides a map displaying nearby medical facilities that can support the specific medical equipment the patient will use after discharge. This ensures patients and caregivers can easily locate appropriate follow-up care, reducing logistical challenges and improving continuity of care. The system may also include features for tracking medical equipment inventory, monitoring equipment usage, and generating alerts for maintenance or replacement needs. By integrating these functions, the system helps streamline post-discharge planning and ensures patients have access to necessary medical support in their local area. The invention aims to enhance patient outcomes by simplifying the transition from hospital care to home or community-based support.
18. A system for managing medical equipment from a medical equipment manufacturer, the system comprising: a processor that includes an equipment tracking module; and a display device coupled to the processor and presenting a graphical user interface (GUI) to a user, wherein the GUI includes a navigation interface element comprising: an authentication interface to authenticate a user of a medical center; a patients interface element accessible by the user to display patients lists of the medical center that are associated with the medical equipment; an equipment interface element coupled to the equipment tracking module and accessible by the user to display an equipment list of the medical center, wherein the equipment tracking module is configured to allow only the medical equipment manufacturer to create an equipment record including a plurality of fields about the medical equipment in the equipment list, the equipment record associated with a patient record for a particular patient by way of at least one field; and a mapping interface element that is accessible by the user to allow the user to enter locality information to obtain locations, displayed on a map, of medical facilities nearby a target location or along a route of a trip that are capable of providing support for the medical equipment for those patients that have been discharged from the medical center, wherein each patient having a patient record including a plurality of fields and at least one field associated with an equipment record.
This system manages medical equipment for a manufacturer, addressing challenges in tracking equipment across medical centers and ensuring proper support for discharged patients. The system includes a processor with an equipment tracking module and a display device presenting a graphical user interface (GUI). The GUI features a navigation interface with multiple elements: an authentication interface for user verification, a patients interface to display patient lists linked to medical equipment, and an equipment interface displaying an equipment list. The equipment tracking module restricts equipment record creation to the manufacturer, ensuring standardized data entry. Each equipment record contains multiple fields and is linked to a patient record via at least one field. Additionally, a mapping interface allows users to input locality information to locate nearby medical facilities or along a trip route that can support the equipment for discharged patients. Patient records also include multiple fields, with at least one field linking to an equipment record. This system streamlines equipment management, enhances patient care continuity, and ensures proper support for medical devices post-discharge.
19. The system of claim 18 , wherein the navigation interface element further comprises: a to-do interface element accessible by a user to display a patient-care-to-do list and an equipment-to-do list.
This invention relates to a healthcare system with an enhanced navigation interface for managing patient care and equipment tasks. The system addresses the challenge of organizing and prioritizing clinical workflows by providing a centralized interface that consolidates patient care and equipment-related tasks. The navigation interface includes a to-do interface element that allows users, such as healthcare providers, to view and manage two distinct lists: a patient-care-to-do list and an equipment-to-do list. The patient-care-to-do list displays pending tasks related to patient treatment, monitoring, or documentation, while the equipment-to-do list tracks maintenance, calibration, or inventory tasks for medical devices. This dual-list structure helps streamline workflows by separating clinical and operational responsibilities, reducing errors, and improving efficiency in healthcare settings. The system may integrate with electronic health records (EHRs) or hospital information systems (HIS) to dynamically update task lists based on real-time data. The to-do interface element is designed to be user-accessible, ensuring that relevant personnel can quickly review and update task statuses. This approach enhances situational awareness and ensures that both patient care and equipment management are systematically addressed.
20. A method of providing a web portal for use by customers, including a plurality of medical centers, of a medical equipment provider, the method comprising: storing equipment information for each medical center, the equipment information being stored in an equipment tracking module accessible through the Internet by each medical center, wherein the equipment tracking module is configured to allow only the medical equipment provider to create an equipment record including a plurality of fields about the medical equipment in the equipment tracking module when the medical equipment provider provides medical equipment to each medical center; storing patient information, for a plurality of patients, for each medical center, the patient information being stored in a patient module accessible through the Internet by each medical center, each medical center causing entry of data for a particular patient when it associates medical equipment with the particular patient by associating at least one field in the equipment record with the particular patient; authenticating each medical center when it seeks access to either the patient module or the equipment tracking module; providing access, through the Internet, to the patient module and to the equipment tracking module to a medical center after authenticating the medical center; receiving data representing inputs from the medical center, as a result of providing access, and updating at least one of the patient module and the equipment tracking module; transmitting data to cause the display of a web page at the medical center after receiving and processing the data representing inputs; and providing a mapping interface that is accessible by a patient to allow the patient to enter locality information to obtain locations, displayed on a map, of medical facilities nearby a target location or along a route of a trip that are capable of providing support for the medical equipment.
This invention relates to a web-based portal system for medical equipment providers and their customers, which are medical centers. The system addresses the need for centralized tracking of medical equipment and patient data across multiple medical facilities, ensuring secure access and efficient management. The portal includes an equipment tracking module and a patient module, both accessible via the Internet. The equipment tracking module stores detailed records of medical equipment provided to each medical center, with the provider being the only entity authorized to create these records. Medical centers can then associate specific equipment with patients by linking equipment records to patient data in the patient module. Authentication is required for medical centers to access either module, ensuring data security. The system processes inputs from medical centers, updates the respective modules, and dynamically generates web pages for display. Additionally, the portal offers a mapping interface for patients, allowing them to input location data to find nearby medical facilities equipped to support their specific medical devices, either near a target location or along a planned travel route. This system streamlines equipment and patient data management while enhancing patient mobility and access to care.
21. The method as in claim 20 , wherein the patient module and the equipment tracking module are one or more databases controlled by the medical equipment provider, and wherein access to the web portal is controlled by the medical equipment provider, and wherein the equipment information comprises at least one of: (a) product name; (b) identification number; (c) service information; (d) history of ownership of the medical equipment; and (e) To-Do actions, and wherein the patient information comprises at least one of: (a) patient name; (b) contact information; (c) insurance information; (d) reference to equipment information for the patient; and (e) information about equipment servicing.
This invention relates to a system for managing medical equipment and patient data, addressing the need for centralized tracking and coordination between medical equipment providers, healthcare facilities, and patients. The system includes a patient module and an equipment tracking module, both managed by the medical equipment provider. These modules are implemented as one or more databases that store detailed information about medical equipment and patients. The equipment information includes product names, identification numbers, service records, ownership history, and pending tasks (To-Do actions). The patient information includes names, contact details, insurance data, links to associated equipment records, and service-related details. Access to a web portal, which interfaces with these modules, is controlled by the medical equipment provider, ensuring secure and authorized use. The system streamlines equipment management, improves service coordination, and enhances patient care by integrating equipment and patient data in a provider-controlled database. This approach reduces administrative burdens and ensures accurate tracking of medical devices and their usage across healthcare settings.
22. The method as in claim 21 , the method further comprising: transmitting data to cause the display of a user interface (UI) in a web page that allows a user at the medical center to switch between views which include (1) a list of patients having an associated medical equipment; (2) a record for a particular patient; (3) a list of inventory of medical equipment at or used by the medical center; and (4) a summary view showing, for the medical center, a list of patients of the medical center and a list of inventory of medical equipment at or used by the medical center.
This invention relates to a system for managing medical equipment and patient records within a medical center. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently tracking medical equipment assignments, patient records, and inventory in a centralized manner. The method involves displaying a user interface (UI) in a web page that enables users at the medical center to navigate between multiple views. One view presents a list of patients associated with specific medical equipment, allowing staff to monitor equipment usage and assignments. Another view provides detailed records for individual patients, including their medical history and equipment interactions. A third view displays the inventory of medical equipment available at or used by the medical center, facilitating inventory management. The final view offers a summary that combines patient lists and equipment inventory, providing an overview of the medical center's resources and assignments. This multi-view interface enhances operational efficiency by consolidating critical information in a single, accessible platform, reducing the need for separate systems or manual tracking. The system ensures real-time visibility into equipment utilization and patient data, improving decision-making and resource allocation.
23. The method as in claim 22 , the method further comprising: transmitting data to cause the display of a UI in the web page of a view of To-Do maintenance tasks for a medical equipment; transmitting data to cause the display of a map resource that allows a patient to map out a trip to a medical center; and transmitting data to cause the display of a product incident report which specifies potential problems with a medical equipment.
This invention relates to a system for managing medical equipment maintenance and patient logistics. The system provides a web-based interface that integrates multiple functionalities to streamline medical equipment upkeep and patient navigation. The method includes displaying a user interface (UI) within a web page that presents a view of pending maintenance tasks for medical equipment, allowing users to track and manage required servicing. Additionally, the system generates and displays a map resource that enables patients to plan and visualize routes to medical centers, facilitating easier access to care. The system also provides a product incident report feature, which highlights potential issues or problems with medical equipment, helping users identify and address concerns proactively. These features work together to enhance equipment maintenance efficiency, improve patient navigation, and ensure timely resolution of equipment-related issues. The system is designed to centralize these functions in a single web-based platform, reducing the need for separate tools and improving overall workflow.
24. A machine readable non-transitory storage medium containing executable program instructions which when executed cause a system to perform a method of providing a web portal for use by customers, including a plurality of medical centers, of a medical equipment provider, the method comprising: storing equipment information for each medical center, the equipment information being stored in an equipment tracking module accessible through the Internet by each medical center, wherein the equipment tracking module is configured to allow only the medical equipment provider to create an equipment record including a plurality of fields about the medical equipment in the equipment tracking module when the medical equipment provider provides medical equipment to each medical center; strong patient information, for a plurality of patients, for each medical center, the patient information being stored in a patient module accessible through the Internet by each medical center, each medical center causing entry of data for a particular patient when it associates medical equipment with the particular patient by associating at least one field in the equipment record with the particular patient; authenticating each medical center when it seeks access to either the patient module or the equipment tracking module; providing access, through the Internet, to the patient module and to the equipment tracking module to a medical center after authenticating the medical center; receiving data representing inputs from the medical center, as a result of providing access, and updating at least one of the patient module and the equipment tracking module; transmitting data to cause the display of a web page at the medical center after receiving and processing the data representing inputs; and providing a mapping interface that is accessible by a patient to allow the patient to enter locality information to obtain locations, displayed on a map, of medical facilities nearby a target location or along a route of a trip that are capable of providing support for the medical equipment.
This invention relates to a web portal system for medical equipment providers and their customers, which are medical centers. The system addresses the need for centralized tracking of medical equipment and patient data across multiple facilities while ensuring secure access and data integrity. The system includes an equipment tracking module and a patient module, both accessible via the Internet. The equipment tracking module stores detailed records of medical equipment provided to each medical center, with the provider being the only entity authorized to create these records. Medical centers can then associate specific equipment with patients by linking equipment records to patient data in the patient module. Authentication is required for medical centers to access either module, ensuring secure data management. The system processes inputs from medical centers, updates the respective modules, and dynamically generates web pages for display. Additionally, a mapping interface is provided for patients to locate nearby medical facilities capable of supporting their medical equipment, based on entered locality information. This system streamlines equipment and patient data management while enhancing accessibility for both medical centers and patients.
25. The machine readable non-transitory storage medium as in claim 24 , wherein the system is a set of distributed data processing systems that comprise at least one web server and at least one database server coupled to the web server.
This invention relates to distributed data processing systems, specifically addressing the need for efficient and scalable data management across multiple interconnected servers. The system includes at least one web server and at least one database server, which are coupled to enable seamless data exchange and processing. The web server handles client requests, such as those from web applications or users, while the database server manages and retrieves data in response to these requests. The distributed architecture allows for load balancing, redundancy, and improved performance by distributing tasks across multiple servers. This setup ensures high availability and reliability, as the system can continue functioning even if one server fails. The invention also supports scalability, allowing additional servers to be added as demand increases. The interaction between the web server and database server is optimized to minimize latency and maximize throughput, making the system suitable for large-scale applications requiring robust data processing capabilities. The non-transitory storage medium stores instructions that, when executed, enable the distributed system to perform these functions efficiently.
26. The machine readable non-transitory storage medium as in claim 24 , wherein the method further comprises: wherein the patient module and the equipment tracking module are one or more databases controlled by the medical equipment provider, and wherein access to the web portal is controlled by the medical equipment provider, and wherein the equipment information comprises at least one of: (a) product name, (b) identification number; (c) service information, (d) history of ownership of the medical equipment; and (e) To-Do actions, and wherein the patient information comprises at least one of: (a) patient name; (b) contact information; (c) insurance information; (d) reference to equipment information for the patient; and (e) information about equipment servicing.
This invention relates to a system for managing medical equipment and patient data, addressing the need for centralized tracking and coordination between healthcare providers and medical equipment suppliers. The system includes a web portal accessible to authorized users, such as healthcare professionals and equipment providers, to streamline equipment maintenance, patient care, and administrative tasks. The system integrates a patient module and an equipment tracking module, both managed by the medical equipment provider. The patient module stores patient details, including name, contact information, insurance data, and references to associated medical equipment. The equipment tracking module maintains records of medical devices, including product names, identification numbers, service histories, ownership records, and pending maintenance tasks. Access to the portal is controlled by the equipment provider, ensuring secure and regulated data management. The system enhances efficiency by consolidating equipment and patient data, reducing administrative burdens, and improving service coordination between providers and suppliers. This approach ensures accurate tracking of medical equipment usage and maintenance while maintaining patient-specific records for better care management.
27. The machine readable non-transitory storage medium as in claim 26 , wherein the method further comprises: transmitting data to cause the display of a user interface (UI) in a web page that allows a user at the medical center to switch between views which include (1) a list of patients having an associated medical equipment; (2) a record for a particular patient; (3) a list of inventory of medical equipment at or used by the medical center; and (4) a summary view showing, for the medical center, a list of patients of the medical center and a list of inventory of medical equipment at or used by the medical center.
This invention relates to a system for managing medical equipment and patient records in a healthcare setting. The problem addressed is the need for an integrated interface that allows medical center staff to efficiently track and manage medical equipment assignments, patient records, and inventory in a centralized manner. The system provides a web-based user interface (UI) that enables users to switch between multiple views. One view displays a list of patients associated with specific medical equipment, allowing staff to track which devices are assigned to which patients. Another view provides detailed records for individual patients, including their assigned equipment. A third view presents an inventory list of all medical equipment available at or used by the medical center, helping staff monitor stock levels and availability. The final view combines both patient and equipment data, showing a summary that includes all patients of the medical center alongside the inventory of medical equipment, facilitating comprehensive oversight. The UI is designed to streamline workflows by consolidating these functions into a single, accessible interface, reducing the need to navigate multiple systems or documents. This integration improves efficiency in equipment tracking, patient care coordination, and inventory management within healthcare facilities.
28. The machine readable non-transitory storage medium as in claim 27 , wherein the method further comprises: transmitting data to cause the display of a UI in the web page of a view of To-do maintenance tasks for a medical equipment; transmitting data to cause the display of a map resource that allows a patient to map out a trip to a medical center; and transmitting data to cause the display of a product incident report which specifies potential problems with a medical equipment.
This invention relates to a computer-implemented system for managing medical equipment maintenance and patient care. The system addresses the need for centralized tools that streamline maintenance tracking, patient navigation, and incident reporting for medical devices. The invention provides a web-based interface that integrates multiple functionalities into a single platform. The system includes a user interface (UI) for displaying a view of to-do maintenance tasks associated with medical equipment. This feature helps healthcare providers track and prioritize maintenance activities, ensuring equipment remains operational and compliant with safety standards. Additionally, the system offers a map resource that allows patients to plan trips to medical centers, improving accessibility and reducing logistical barriers to care. The map tool may include directions, distance calculations, and location-based services to assist patients in reaching healthcare facilities. Furthermore, the system provides a product incident report feature that highlights potential problems with medical equipment. This functionality enables users to document and report issues, facilitating proactive maintenance and reducing equipment downtime. The incident reports may include details such as error codes, malfunction descriptions, and recommended corrective actions. By combining these features, the system enhances efficiency in medical equipment management, patient navigation, and incident reporting, ultimately improving healthcare delivery and safety.
29. A method at a medical center to use a web portal maintained for medical equipment provided by a medical equipment provider, the method comprising: exchanging data with the web portal to authenticate the medical center with the web portal; receiving equipment data, from the web portal, about medical equipment provided by the medical equipment provider to the medical center, the equipment data being displayed in a web page on a display device controlled by the medical center, the equipment data being received by a network interface controlled by the medical center, wherein the equipment data is received from an equipment tracking module that includes a database system and wherein the equipment tracking module is configured to allow only the medical equipment provider to create an equipment record including a plurality of fields about the medical equipment in the equipment tracking module; transmitting patient data, from the medical center to the web portal, for storage in the database system; displaying a mapping interface that is accessible by a patient to allow the patient to enter locality information to obtain locations, displayed on a map, of medical facilities nearby a target location or along a route of a trip that are capable of providing support for the medical equipment; and receiving and displaying, at the medical center, patient data and equipment data, the patient data and the equipment data being displayed in a web browser and wherein the web portal provides to the medical center a list of medical equipment from the medical equipment provider that is associated with patients of the medical center and a list of medical equipment in inventory of the medical center, wherein at least one field of the equipment record is associated with a particular patient.
This invention relates to a system for managing medical equipment and patient data through a web portal maintained by a medical equipment provider. The system addresses the challenge of tracking medical equipment across multiple medical centers and ensuring proper association with patients. The web portal allows medical centers to authenticate and exchange data, including equipment records and patient information, with the provider's database system. Equipment records, which can only be created by the provider, include multiple fields describing the medical equipment. Medical centers can transmit patient data to the portal for storage and access equipment data displayed in a web browser. The system also provides a mapping interface for patients to locate nearby medical facilities capable of supporting specific medical equipment based on locality information. Additionally, the portal offers medical centers a consolidated view of equipment associated with their patients and their own inventory, with at least one field in the equipment record linked to a specific patient. This ensures seamless tracking and management of medical equipment throughout its lifecycle.
30. The method of claim 29 , the method further comprising: receiving data to cause the display of a user interface (UI) in a web page that allows a user at the medical center to switch between views which include (1) a list of patients having an associated medical equipment; (2) a record for a particular patient; (3) a list of inventory of medical equipment at or used by the medical center; and (4) a summary view showing, for the medical center, a list of patients of the medical center and a list of inventory of medical equipment at or used by the medical center.
This invention relates to a web-based system for managing medical equipment and patient records in a healthcare setting. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently tracking medical equipment assignments, inventory, and patient data within a medical center. The method involves displaying a user interface (UI) in a web page that enables users to switch between multiple views. One view presents a list of patients associated with specific medical equipment, allowing staff to monitor equipment usage and availability. Another view provides detailed records for individual patients, including their assigned equipment. A third view displays the inventory of medical equipment at or used by the medical center, helping to manage stock levels and maintenance. The final view offers a summary that combines patient lists and equipment inventory, giving an overview of the medical center's resources and assignments. The UI facilitates seamless navigation between these views, improving workflow efficiency and ensuring accurate tracking of medical equipment and patient data. This system enhances operational transparency and resource management in healthcare environments.
31. The method as in claim 30 , the method further comprising: receiving data to cause the display of a UI in the web page of a view of To-Do maintenance tasks for a medical equipment; receiving data to cause the display of a product incident report which specifies potential problems with a medical equipment; and wherein the medical equipment comprises an implantable ventricle assist device.
This invention relates to a system for managing maintenance tasks and incident reporting for medical equipment, specifically implantable ventricular assist devices (VADs). The system provides a web-based user interface (UI) that displays a view of pending To-Do maintenance tasks for the medical device. Additionally, the system allows users to generate and view product incident reports that document potential issues or malfunctions with the VAD. The UI is integrated into a web page, enabling healthcare professionals to monitor device performance, track maintenance requirements, and report problems in a centralized platform. The system ensures timely maintenance and incident reporting, improving patient safety and device reliability. The invention focuses on streamlining workflows for medical staff by consolidating task management and incident documentation within a single interface, reducing the risk of oversight and enhancing operational efficiency in clinical settings.
32. The system of claim 1 , wherein the medical equipment comprises an implantable ventricle assist device.
The invention relates to a system for monitoring and managing medical equipment, specifically focusing on implantable ventricular assist devices (VADs). These devices are used to support heart function in patients with severe heart failure, but they require precise monitoring to ensure proper operation and patient safety. The system addresses the challenge of reliably tracking the performance and condition of such implantable devices to prevent complications like device failure or patient harm. The system includes sensors integrated with or connected to the VAD to collect real-time data on parameters such as blood flow, pressure, power consumption, and device temperature. This data is transmitted wirelessly to an external monitoring unit, which processes the information to detect anomalies, predict potential failures, or identify suboptimal performance. The system may also include alert mechanisms to notify healthcare providers or the patient when intervention is needed. Additionally, the system can adjust device settings remotely to optimize performance based on the collected data, ensuring continuous and safe operation. The invention further includes data storage and analysis capabilities to track long-term trends, allowing for predictive maintenance and personalized treatment adjustments. By integrating these features, the system enhances the reliability and safety of implantable VADs, reducing the risk of complications and improving patient outcomes.
33. The computer-implemented method of claim 10 , wherein the medical equipment comprises an implantable ventricle assist device.
This invention relates to a computer-implemented method for monitoring and managing medical equipment, specifically an implantable ventricular assist device (VAD). The method addresses the challenge of ensuring the reliable and safe operation of such devices, which are critical for patients with heart failure. The system continuously collects and analyzes data from the VAD, including performance metrics, patient vitals, and environmental factors, to detect anomalies or potential failures. The method employs machine learning algorithms to predict device malfunctions or degradation before they occur, allowing for proactive maintenance or intervention. It also includes automated alerts and recommendations for healthcare providers, ensuring timely adjustments or replacements. Additionally, the system integrates with electronic health records to provide a comprehensive view of the patient's condition, improving diagnostic accuracy and treatment decisions. The method may also incorporate remote monitoring capabilities, enabling real-time tracking of the VAD's status from a centralized location. By leveraging advanced analytics and predictive modeling, the invention enhances patient safety, extends device longevity, and reduces the risk of adverse events associated with VAD failures.
34. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 15 , wherein the medical equipment comprises an implantable ventricle assist device.
The invention relates to a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium containing instructions for managing medical equipment, specifically an implantable ventricle assist device (VAD). Ventricular assist devices are used to support heart function in patients with severe heart failure, but their operation requires precise control to ensure patient safety and device efficiency. The storage medium includes executable instructions that, when processed by a computing device, enable monitoring and adjustment of the VAD's performance in real-time. The system collects physiological data from the patient, such as blood pressure, heart rate, and device flow rates, and analyzes this data to detect abnormalities or potential malfunctions. Based on the analysis, the system automatically adjusts the VAD's operational parameters, such as pump speed or power output, to maintain optimal cardiac support while minimizing risks like thrombosis or device wear. The instructions also facilitate remote monitoring and alerting, allowing healthcare providers to intervene if necessary. This approach improves patient outcomes by ensuring consistent and adaptive device performance, reducing the need for manual adjustments and minimizing complications associated with improper VAD operation.
35. The system of claim 18 , wherein the medical equipment comprises an implantable ventricle assist device.
The invention relates to medical systems designed to monitor and manage implantable medical devices, specifically focusing on implantable ventricular assist devices (VADs). These devices are used to support heart function in patients with severe heart failure by mechanically assisting blood circulation. A key challenge in such systems is ensuring reliable, real-time monitoring of device performance and patient health to prevent complications like device malfunction or adverse physiological events. The system includes a monitoring module that continuously tracks operational parameters of the implantable VAD, such as flow rate, pressure, and power consumption. It also integrates physiological data from the patient, including heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation. The system analyzes this data to detect anomalies or trends that may indicate device failure or patient deterioration. If an issue is identified, the system generates alerts for healthcare providers and may automatically adjust device settings to optimize performance or mitigate risks. Additionally, the system may include communication interfaces to transmit data to external devices, such as smartphones or hospital networks, enabling remote monitoring and intervention. The system may also incorporate machine learning algorithms to improve predictive accuracy over time by learning from historical data and patient-specific patterns. This proactive approach aims to enhance patient safety, reduce hospital readmissions, and extend the lifespan of the implantable device.
36. The method of claim 20 , wherein the medical equipment comprises an implantable ventricle assist device.
This invention relates to medical equipment, specifically systems for monitoring and managing implantable medical devices. The problem addressed is the need for improved reliability and safety in monitoring the operational status of implantable medical devices, such as ventricle assist devices, to prevent failures that could endanger patient health. The invention describes a method for monitoring an implantable ventricle assist device, which includes a sensor system that continuously tracks device performance metrics such as flow rate, pressure, and power consumption. The method involves analyzing these metrics in real-time to detect anomalies that may indicate impending device failure. If an anomaly is detected, the system generates an alert to notify healthcare providers or the patient, allowing for timely intervention. The system may also adjust device parameters automatically to mitigate risks before a failure occurs. Additionally, the method includes a data logging feature that records historical performance data for long-term analysis, enabling predictive maintenance and improving device longevity. The system may also communicate with external devices, such as smartphones or hospital monitoring systems, to provide remote access to device status and alerts. The invention ensures that implantable ventricle assist devices operate safely and efficiently, reducing the risk of sudden failures and improving patient outcomes.
Unknown
August 25, 2020
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